Position: Mental Wellness Coach

(Senior Practical Psychologist in Ukraine – WES-recognized degree)

Phone: (647) 864-6927

Email: apavliuk.starmindtherapy@gmail.com

BIO:

About Me

🧠 My name is Alina, and I am a Mental Wellness Coach. Everything I do comes from a place of care, warmth, and a deep desire to make the human journey a little easier—especially during life’s more challenging moments.

I hold a degree in Psychology from Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University in Ukraine, recognized by WES in Canada. From 2007 to 2020, I worked as a practical psychologist in a children’s health center, supporting children and teens in vulnerable life situations. My work often meant being there for those who lacked emotional support at home—offering guidance, compassion, and belief in their future.

Later, I supported children with developmental and speech delays in inclusive education, helping them adapt and connect with others. In Canada, I worked at the Canadian Ukrainian Immigrant Aid Society (CUIAS) from 2023 to 2025, where I offered emotional support to newcomers navigating the stress of immigration, war trauma, and adaptation.

I chose this path because I believe in kindness. I believe everyone deserves someone to stand beside them in times of doubt, fear, and sadness. My mission is to be that person—someone who walks with you until your own strength feels strong again. What inspires me the most is seeing the light return to someone’s eyes, the soft confidence return to their voice. Every challenge we face is an invitation to grow and reconnect with the best version of ourselves.

🎯 Areas of Focus

I work with individuals who are seeking emotional balance, inner strength, and meaningful support. My focus areas include:

• Anxiety, emotional overwhelm, and fear
• Life transitions and crises
• Post-traumatic stress and war-related experiences
• Self-worth, confidence, and motivation
• Emotional resilience and stress management
• Personal boundaries and self-advocacy
• Parent-child relationships

I support children (ages 5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors. Every person carries a unique story, and I deeply honour each one.

🧰 Modalities & Approach

My approach is gentle, client-centered, and rooted in respect for each person’s pace and experience. I offer creative, expressive, and body-mind-based practices that invite healing through connection with oneself.

“Art is the bridge between emotion and understanding.”
This quote resonates deeply with my philosophy. Creativity plays a special role in my work. Expressive practices allow us to access inner wisdom that words alone can’t always reach. I use:

• Drawing, clay, collage — to give shape to feelings and thoughts
• Metaphoric Associative Cards (MAC) — for self-reflection and clarity
• Fairy tales and storytelling — to reframe experience through symbolic meaning
• Music and sound — for grounding, release, and relaxation
• Mandala creation — to support emotional balance and focus
• Movement and dance — to reconnect with the body and restore flow

No prior skills or artistic abilities are needed—these are not about performance, but about honest, personal expression.

I believe that there is always a way forward. Often, there is more than one. My role is to help you see the possibilities, reconnect with your strengths, and walk beside you as you move toward a space of clarity and healing.

🗣 Languages Spoken

• Ukrainian
• Russian

👥 Group Facilitation

I have experience facilitating group sessions for both children and adults. In Ukraine, I regularly led training-style workshops and interactive emotional development sessions.

In Canada, I developed and led a successful mandala-based expressive arts project. Participants shared that the process helped ease emotional tension, reduce stress, and rediscover their inner creativity and calm.

Group work is a beautiful space of shared energy, connection, and insight—and I look forward to continuing to create safe, meaningful group experiences for others.

📜 Certifications & Training

• Trauma and Addiction Training – Nova Simya Foundation – 2011
• Qualification Upgrade – Practical Psychologist – Institute of Postgraduate Pedagogical Education, Chernivtsi – 2014
• Trainer Certification: “Grow Up Healthy” Educational Program – Chernivtsi Institute of Postgraduate Pedagogical Education – 2015
• Qualification Upgrade – Practical Psychologist – Institute of Postgraduate Pedagogical Education, Chernivtsi – 2019
• Crisis Counseling & Psychosocial Resilience in Children – Chernivtsi Institute of Postgraduate Pedagogical Education – 2019
• “Personal Dignity. Life Safety. Civic Position” Program for Youth – Chernivtsi Institute of Postgraduate Pedagogical Education – 2019
• Working with Children with Special Educational Needs (Primary School Focus) – EdEra / Smart Osvita / USAID – 2021
• Accessibility Awareness – Basic Digital Literacy – Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine / Diia – 2022
• Inclusive Education: A School for All – EdEra / Learning Together Project – 2022
• Art Therapy for Crisis & PTSD Recovery – Natalia Sablina’s Training Center – Expected 2025
• Art Coaching Certification – International Institute of Psychology – Expected 2025

🌿 A Bit About Me

I’m someone who finds joy in quiet mornings, meaningful conversations, and moments of creativity. I turn to nature, music, drawing, and mindful walks to restore my energy.

I believe in pausing. In listening. In creating soft, safe spaces—for myself and others. Because when we feel safe and seen, something beautiful begins to grow from within.